Leclerc stands tall, down but not broken

It’s perhaps the cruelest twist of fate an F1 driver can encounter – a retirement on a race's very formation lap.

An electronics issue, robbing him of hydraulics, left Charles Leclerc without a gearbox or power steering on his way to Sunday’s Sao Paulo GP grid, ultimately guiding his Ferrari into the unforgiving barriers.

It was a heart-wrenching setback for the Monegasque who had high expectations for his race at Interlagos. But one thing that defines great champions is their resilience in the face of adversity.

Leclerc’s grit, determination and unwavering spirit will undoubtedly rise above this challenging moment, using it as a steppingstone to even greater heights in the races yet to come.

Charles stands tall, down but not broken.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.